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WICHITA, Kansas – As mosquito season intensifies across Kansas, the Sedgwick County Health Department is providing a free service to help residents control mosquito populations at their properties. The department announced on Wednesday that it is distributing free ‘mosquito dunks,’ a larvicide designed to target and eliminate mosquito larvae before they mature into biting adults.

Mosquito dunks contain a naturally occurring bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), which is toxic to mosquito larvae but harmless to people, pets, and other wildlife. These dunks are typically placed in standing water sources like bird baths, ponds, rain barrels, and clogged gutters where mosquitoes breed. By targeting the larval stage, the dunks effectively reduce the number of adult mosquitoes, minimizing the nuisance and potential health risks associated with mosquito bites.

The Sedgwick County Health Department's proactive approach aims to mitigate the impact of mosquitoes, which can transmit diseases like West Nile virus. While West Nile virus cases are typically low in Sedgwick County, prevention remains a priority. The availability of free mosquito dunks encourages residents to take personal responsibility in controlling mosquito breeding grounds around their homes and businesses.

Residents interested in obtaining free mosquito dunks can contact the Sedgwick County Health Department directly. Specific details regarding distribution locations and quantities are available on the department's website or by calling their office. This initiative underscores the county's commitment to public health and providing accessible resources for mosquito control during the summer months. The Health Department urges residents to regularly inspect their properties for standing water and utilize the provided dunks to effectively manage mosquito populations.